Bloody Cycle of Retaliation Must End, Secretary-General Tells Security Council, Urging Stop to Hostilities in Gaza
Urging maximum restraint following recent escalations in the Middle East, the Head of the United Nations urged an end to the deadly cycle of retaliation and called on the international community to work together to avert a full-scale regional conflict, first by ending hostilities in Gaza and ultimately by realizing the two-State solution, as the Security Council today convened its quarterly open debate on the situation in the region.
“This moment of maximum peril must be a time for maximum restraint,” urged United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres. Reiterating his strong condemnation of the serious escalation posed by Iran’s large-scale attack on Israel on 13 April, as well as his condemnation of the attack on Tehran’s consulate in Damascus earlier this month, he said: “It is high time to end the bloody cycle of retaliation.”
The international community must work together to pull the region back from the precipice by advancing comprehensive diplomatic action for regional de-escalation, starting with Gaza, he said, emphasizing that ending the hostilities there would significantly defuse tensions across the region. Detailing limited progress and ongoing challenges despite Israel’s recent commitments to improve aid delivery, he said Palestinians are facing widespread starvation and Israel must fully and actively facilitate humanitarian operations immediately.
“The ultimate goal remains a two-State solution,” he said, stressing: “The international community has a responsibility and a moral obligation to help make this happen.” Spotlighting other conflicts in the region, including in the occupied West Bank, Lebanon and the Red Sea, he said: “We have a shared moral obligation to advance a comprehensive Middle East de-escalation effort, in order to reduce risks, increase stability, and pave the way towards peace and prosperity for the countries and people of the region and beyond.”
Ziad Abu Amr, Special Representative of the President for the State of Palestine, said that since 1988, the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) — “the only legitimate representative of the Palestinian people” — has made every possible effort to achieve peace based on the two-State solution. “Today, we are asking for full membership for the State of Palestine in the United Nations — but this does not mean we forget what is happening in the Gaza Strip,” he added. The Council must compel Israel to end its aggression, allow aid to be delivered to a starving people, immediately withdraw from Gaza and comply with international law. “We rely on peace-loving nations to end this war,” he urged.
Israel’s representative, countering that assertion, said the Palestinians have rejected every peace plan ever proposed. Noting the Council’s imminent vote on a resolution to recommend granting the Palestinian Authority a full membership status — a Palestinian State — he said that if the draft passes, this organ should be known as “the Terror Council”. Moreover, instead of sanctioning Iran’s “evil regime”, which launched an unprecedented attack on his country less than a week ago, the Council opens its door for Iran’s Foreign Minister. The UN is committed to “multi-terrorism” rather than multilateralism, and, in its current form, “has no future”, he said, citing today’s meeting as “the catalyst of the UN’s collapse”.
In the ensuing debate, which featured 40 speakers, including ministers and other high-level representatives, and which will resume next week, delegates voiced alarm about the threat of a regional war following Iran’s recent attack on Israel and urged strict compliance with Council resolution 2728 (2024), which demanded an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the immediate and unconditional release of hostages and the urgent need to expand the flow of aid into Gaza.
Ian Borg, Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade of Malta, Council President for April, speaking in his national capacity, called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, stating that it is “completely unacceptable” that the parties disregarded the 15-member organ’s ceasefire demand in resolution 2728 (2024).
Several speakers, including Renata Cvelbar Bek, Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovenia, echoed the Secretary-General and underscored that a Gaza ceasefire is key to reducing “the boiling tensions” in the region, including along the Blue Line, in the Red Sea and elsewhere. She urged all regional actors and their partners to exercise maximum restraint, stressing that: “Diplomacy is the only way forward.”
Uemura Tsukasa, Special Envoy of Japan for the Middle East Peace, was among speakers who voiced concern about the prospect of further escalation into Rafah. A full-scale military operation in Rafah would bring about a disastrous outcome, he warned. “To end the current tragedy and achieve lasting peace and stability in the Middle East, there is no solution other than peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine,” he underscored.
On that note, Ahmed Attaf, Minister for Foreign Affairs and National Community Abroad of Algeria, said the failure to implement the “historic and legitimate right” of the Palestinian people to create an independent State is the main cause of this prolonged conflict. “The Council has a historic and decisive responsibility to act immediately to impose the two-State solution,” he stressed. Moreover, granting Palestine full membership in the United Nations will consolidate the two-State solution and build the peace process on solid foundations — a point echoed by other delegations.
However, the United Kingdom’s representative, reiterating her country’s commitment to a sovereign, viable Palestinian State, stressed that “recognition cannot come at the start of the process, but it does not have to be the very end of the process”. While “London will recognize a Palestinian State at a time that is most conducive to the peace process,” she underscored that “that pathway must start with fixing the immediate crisis in Gaza”.
Mauro Vieira, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Brazil, urging the Council to assess the State of Palestine’s request for UN membership “for its main merit — to redress, by peaceful means, a historical injustice”, pointed out that various UN decisions outlawing occupation and annexation have laid the normative basis for the consolidation of the State of Palestine’s territorial sovereignty. “We should now discuss ways to ensure the implementation of such norms,” he urged.
Meanwhile, the representative of the United States, calling for united condemnation of Iran’s “reckless escalatory acts”, said Tehran’s long-standing support to Hamas continues to contribute to the crisis in Gaza and is the “sole obstacle to a ceasefire”. Hossein Amir-abdollahian, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iran, however, pointing to Israel’s attack on Tehran’s consulate in Damascus, said his country’s only option was to attack Israel, on 13 April, under its right to self-defence under international law, but it did not target civilians or civilian areas.
China’s representative proposed to convene an international peace conference to develop a timeline and road map for the realization of the two-State solution. Likewise, José Manuel Albares, Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation of Spain, said his country has proposed the convening of an international peace conference — supported by the European Union, the League of Arab States (LAS) and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), as well as 80 countries — to advance the achievement of a two-State solution.
Among delegations who drew attention to the dire humanitarian situation facing Palestinians was the representative of France, who said all impediments to the delivery of humanitarian aid must be lifted and Israel must open and facilitate the use of all crossings for such deliveries. Reiterating her country’s solidarity with Israel, she urged the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. An end to the illegal settlements under international law and the cycle of violence in the West Bank is equally necessary, she pointed out, calling on Israeli authorities to ensure the protection of all civilians under the country’s international law obligations.
Ayman Safadi, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Jordan, echoing the Secretary-General, said de-escalation must begin with an end to the aggression in Gaza and an end to the worsening humanitarian crisis. Moreover, the international community must launch immediate international actions that put the region on the path to implementing the two-State solution, with a specific timeframe and binding implementation guarantees, he stressed.
Putting a face to the innocent caught in war, he recounted the story of Mohammed, who although deprived of his school and displaced to Rafah, attends a lesson in a refugee camp with peers who insist on learning. “Mohammed says he doesn’t want war. Instead, he wants a future; he wants life and dignity,” he emphasized.
THE SITUATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST, INCLUDING THE PALESTINIAN QUESTION
Briefing
ANTÓNIO GUTERRES, Secretary-General of the United Nations, warned: “The Middle East is on a precipice,” pointing to the recent days’ “perilous escalation — in words and deeds” and the threat of a full-scale regional conflict that would be devastating for all involved and for the rest of the world. “This moment of maximum peril must be a time for maximum restraint,” he urged. Reiterating his “strong condemnation of the serious escalation” represented by Iran’s large-scale attack on Israel on 13 April, as well as his condemnation of the attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus earlier this month, he said: “It is high time to end the bloody cycle of retaliation.” The international community must work together to pull the region back from the precipice by advancing comprehensive diplomatic action for regional de-escalation, starting with Gaza. “Ending the hostilities in Gaza would significantly defuse tensions across the region,” he emphasized.
In the horrific terror attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups on 7 October, and the seven months of Israeli military operations in Gaza, tens of thousands of people have been killed, he said. Two million Palestinians — including over 13,900 children — have endured death, destruction and the denial of lifesaving humanitarian aid. “All this has happened with severe limitations imposed by the Israeli authorities on the delivery of humanitarian aid to people in Gaza, who are facing widespread starvation,” he pointed out, citing limited progress and ongoing challenges despite Israel’s recent commitments to improve aid delivery. For example, Israeli authorities’ clearances of more aid convoys are often granted when it is too late in the day to make deliveries and return safely, he said, stressing: “Our personnel cannot operate in darkness in a war zone littered with unexploded ordnance.”
From 6-12 April, Israel denied more than 40 per cent of UN requests that required passing through Israeli checkpoints, he continued. Humanitarian agencies, led by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), must be able to move food and other supplies safely and via all possible routes and crossings into and throughout Gaza. Israel must fully and actively facilitate humanitarian operations immediately, including through a functioning humanitarian notification system — and improved and direct communications between humanitarians and military decision makers on the ground. “For the moment, our aid operations face enormous difficulties and are barely functional,” he said. The international community has a shared responsibility to do everything possible to ensure an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza; the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages; and the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid.
A comprehensive de-escalation approach must also reverse the explosive situation in the occupied West Bank, he said, urging Israel to take immediate steps to end the unprecedented levels of settler violence and to hold the perpetrators accountable. He also called on Israel, as the occupying Power, to protect the Palestinian population against attacks, violence and intimidation. Tel Aviv, together with the international community, must support and work with the new Palestinian Government to address its fiscal challenges, strengthen its governance capacity, and prepare it to reassume its responsibilities in Gaza. Moreover, all actors must recognize the critical role the Palestinian Authority should play in Gaza and work toward enabling its return in the appropriate time. “The ultimate goal remains a two-State solution…” including establishment of a fully independent Palestinian State, with Gaza as an integral part, he said, stressing: “The international community has a responsibility and a moral obligation to help make this happen.”
Turning to other conflicts in the Middle East, he said regional de-escalation efforts must also address the extremely fraught situation in Lebanon, particularly along the Blue Line, and ensure the safety of navigation on the Red Sea. Armed confrontations on that crucial waterway increase risks to supply chains, environmental disaster or a confrontation between major Powers. The international community must act together to prevent escalation in the Red Sea and to support the people of Yemen towards a political process for a sustainable, just peace. Warning that failure to make progress towards a two-State solution will only increase volatility and risk for hundreds of millions of people, he urged every Government to use its influence and leverage to that end. “We have a shared moral obligation to advance a comprehensive Middle East de-escalation effort, in order to reduce risks, increase stability, and pave the way towards peace and prosperity for the countries and people of the region and beyond,” he concluded.
Statements
ZIAD ABU AMR, Special Representative of the President for the State of Palestine, emphasized that the Palestinian people are “victims of a history not of their making”. However, since 1988, the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) — “the only legitimate representative of the Palestinian people”, he noted — has shown readiness to close the chapter of conflict and sit at the negotiating table to find a just, comprehensive and permanent solution for the Palestinian question. It has made every possible effort, along with unimaginable historic concessions, to achieve peace based on the two-State solution and resolve the issue of refugees pursuant to General Assembly resolution 194. Granting Palestine full UN membership will lift “some” of the historic injustice to which succeeding Palestinian generations have been subjected, he said, asking how such a grant would damage the prospects of peace between Palestine and Israel.
Addressing those who say recognition of a Palestinian State must occur through negotiation and not through a UN resolution, he spotlighted the establishment and recognition of Israel through General Assembly resolution 181 of 1947. Those who are trying to hinder the adoption of such a resolution “are not helping the prospects for peace”, he stressed, adding that its adoption would grant Palestinians the hope for a decent life that “has dissipated over past years because of the intransigence of the Israeli Government”. Recalling the constructive role the State of Palestine has played after being granted observer status in the General Assembly, he said: “Today, we are asking for full membership for the State of Palestine in the United Nations — but this does not mean we forget what is happening in the Gaza Strip.” He therefore called on the Council to compel Israel to end its aggression, allow aid to be delivered to a starving people, immediately withdraw from Gaza and comply with international law. “We rely on peace-loving nations to end this war,” he urged.
The representative of Israel said that, rather than condemning Hamas’ atrocities or taking real action to facilitate the return of hostages, the Council will be voting on a resolution to recommend granting the Palestinian Authority a full membership status — a Palestinian State. “How detached from reality can this [organ] be to dedicate its time and resources to support a resolution so disconnected from the reality on the ground?” he asked. Six months after the most brutal massacre of Jews since the Holocaust, the Council seeks to reward its perpetrators with Statehood. However, as the Palestinian Authority — “paying monthly salaries to all the terrorists that took part in the attacks” — has zero control over Gaza, “who is going to be in charge?” he asked. Emphasizing that this “genocide-loving entity” deserves no status here, he said that, if the draft passes, this organ should be known as “the Terror Council”.
The Palestinians have rejected every peace plan ever proposed and their rejection pays off, he observed, noting that the UN is committed to “multi-terrorism” rather than multilateralism. On Iran, which “exposed itself as the terrorist State that it is”, he said that — precisely 41 years since its 18 April 1983 attack on the United States Embassy in Beirut — this Council will be addressed by its terrorists. Tehran has provided weaponry to Hizbullah to rain down missiles on Israeli cities and launched an unprecedented attack on that country less than a week ago. Instead of sanctioning Iran’s “evil regime”, the Council opens its door for Iran’s Foreign Minister — “to show that his country can launch an attack on another Member State on Saturday and come here on Thursday to lecture others on human rights and international law”. Noting that “the UN has lost every ounce of justice”, he stated: “Your eyes will remain in Gaza as the rest of the world burns”. In its current form, the UN “has no future,” he asserted, citing today’s meeting as “the catalyst of the UN’s collapse”.
IAN BORG, Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade of Malta, Council President for April, speaking in his national capacity, calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, said it is “completely unacceptable” that the parties disregarded the Council’s ceasefire demand in resolution 2728 (2024). The prospect of further escalation into Rafah is “unconscionable” and poses further displacement. He underscored that international law and the International Court of Justice’s provisional orders on 26 January and 28 March must be complied with. He called for an independent investigation into all killings of UN and humanitarian staff and for commercial trade to resume as the people of Gaza cannot remain dependent on aid alone. There must be prevention of regional conflagration, reversal of illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank, and a revitalization of the Palestinian Authority. “A just resolution” will provide for Palestinians’ “legitimate aspirations” for UN membership and Statehood, and that Israelis live in security.
AHMED ATTAF, Minister for Foreign Affairs and National Community Abroad of Algeria, stressed the failure to implement the “historic and legitimate right” of the Palestinian people to create an independent State — recognized by the international community 76 years ago — is the main cause of this prolonged conflict. He deplored Israel’s attempt to eradicate the foundations of the Palestinian State and destroy its pillars through its “genocidal war” in Gaza and the “suffocation” of the West Bank through settlement policies and forced displacement. The Israeli occupation continues to escalate the situation in the region in an effort to extinguish the Palestinian cause. He recalled that a few months ago the Israeli authorities showed a map in the Council, where Palestine did not exist. This demonstrates “the true face of the Israeli occupation made of colonization, spreading of illusions and undermining the security of the Middle East”, he said, adding: “The Council has a historic and decisive responsibility to act immediately to impose the two-State solution, which is facing the imminent mortal danger”.
Citing Algeria’s historical support for Palestine, he called for granting it full membership within the Organization. Doing so will consolidate the two-State solution, safeguard the future Palestinian State, and build the peace process on solid foundations. “This is our legal duty, a political duty and a security duty, […] a duty at the scale of humanity and civilization,” he stated.
RENATA CVELBAR BEK, Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovenia, said that the situation in Gaza and the West Bank is “where the master key to easing tensions in the region is”, calling for immediate and full compliance with the Council resolutions and International Court of Justice orders related to the conflict in Gaza. The threat of the military offensive in Rafah remains. In recent days, the situation in the West Bank has been escalating. “These are the fires that we have to extinguish before they engulf the whole region,” she said, underscoring that a Gaza ceasefire is key to reducing “the boiling tensions” in the region, including along the Blue Line, in the Red Sea and elsewhere.
Urging all regional actors and their partners to exercise maximum restraint, she stressed that missiles and drones would not address the root causes of the crisis. “They are not solutions, just as retaliations are not dialogue,” she said, declaring: “Diplomacy is the only way forward.” She went on to emphasize the need to start and support the political process towards a two-State solution. The Council must do its part. In that regard, she welcomed the draft resolution proposed by France. The two-State formula must be based on the sovereign equality of States. Her country supports their equal status in the United Nations. People in Palestine, Israel and the whole Middle East are not asking for the impossible. They want peace and security and a viable vision of a better, dignified future. “Let us all do everything in our power to make this happen,” she urged.
UEMURA TSUKASA, Special Envoy of Japan for the Middle East Peace, said the Council must foster and encourage the serious efforts outside the Council chamber of countries concerned to achieve the release of the hostages and a ceasefire, warning that a full-scale military operation in Rafah would bring about a disastrous outcome. He strongly condemned the escalation posed by Iran’s attack against Israel and reiterated his country’s determination to continue to make all necessary diplomatic efforts to prevent any further deterioration. “To end the current tragedy and achieve lasting peace and stability in the Middle East, there is no solution other than peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine,” he underscored. His country will continue to contribute to the realization of a two-State solution through its own initiatives and efforts and will remain an “escort runner” for Palestine, Israel and all the people living in the Middle East, in good times and bad, he said.
The representative of the Russian Federation, recalling the adoption of resolution 2728 (2024) and its demand for a ceasefire, said that, to get there, his delegation and that of China had to veto a draft resolution submitted by the United States — “the purpose of which was specifically to ensure that there was no ceasefire”. He also recalled that, as early as 16 October, the Russian Federation authored a draft on a ceasefire in Gaza, which received negative votes from the delegations of France, the United States, the United Kingdom and Japan. On 18 October, a text drafted by Brazil was vetoed by the United States despite its condemnation of Hamas. “Just imagine how many lives we could have saved if these proposals had received support,” he said, underscoring that every United States veto cast on Gaza “comes with a specific, frightful price” — the lives of those in Gaza. He added that, if its resolutions are not implemented, the Council has the right to impose sanctions on those who violate and sabotage its decisions.
The representative of the United Kingdom condemned Iran’s unprecedented attack against Israel, as well as its violation of Jordan and Iraq’s airspace. Calling for de-escalation, she said Iran’s actions “do nothing to advance the prospects for peace in Israel and Gaza”. London remains committed to urgently securing an immediate pause to get aid in and hostages out, then progress towards a permanent, sustainable ceasefire without a return to fighting and loss of life. On the devastating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, she said: “Gazans need more aid, and they need it now.” Accordingly, she welcomed Israel’s commitments to fully open Ashdod port and the Erez checkpoint and to increase capacity through the Jordan land corridor. Reiterating her country’s commitment to a sovereign, viable Palestinian State, she stressed that “recognition cannot come at the start of the process, but it does not have to be the very end of the process”. While “London will recognize a Palestinian State at a time that is most conducive to the peace process,” she underscored that “that pathway must start with fixing the immediate crisis in Gaza”.
TIMOTHY MUSA KABBA, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Sierra Leone, expressed support for the admission of the State of Palestine to the UN, noting it potentially provides a pathway to a political horizon, based on the two-State solution. On the latest conflict, he called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and for parties to fully respect resolutions 2712 (2023), 2720 (2023) and 2728 (2024). “The killings, suffering and collective punishment must stop,” and there must be accountability for all violations of international law. He expressed concern about tensions in the occupied West Bank, in Lebanon and with the exchange of rockets and other attacks, which may cause a regional conflict. He underscored that the Council should consider the implementation of resolutions 2712 (2023), 2720 (2023) and 2728 (2024).
The representative of China, noting the precarious situation on the ground, said that the Council must demonstrate “firm determination and make the right choice by taking vigorous action”. An immediate ceasefire must be promoted with the utmost urgency, he stressed. The continuation of fighting will result in more casualties and pull the whole region into an “even greater Holocaust”, he warned, calling on Israel to implement resolution 2728 (2024) and urging “countries with influence on the parties to take an impartial stand and promote a ceasefire”. The fundamental way out for the Middle East lies in the two-State solution, he said, proposing to convene an international peace conference to develop a timeline and road map for its realization. Highlighting the historical injustice inflicted upon the Palestinian people, he pleaded with the Council to cast a favourable vote to “support Palestine to join the United Nations family”.
The representative of Ecuador said that today’s debate comes half a year after an unprecedented explosion of violence that has caused death and pain to the people of Israel and Palestine. Condemning Hamas terrorist attacks on 7 October 2023, he demanded the immediate release of all hostages without any conditions. It cannot be forgotten that each number of deaths and injuries “represents a human being, as worthy as those of us in this chamber”. The full implementation of all Council resolutions is necessary to alleviate the hardships faced by the civilian population in Gaza. A humanitarian ceasefire is essential, as demanded by Council resolution 2728 (2024). The recent events underscore the need to fully implement Council resolution 2334 (2016), he said, stressing that “violence will not solve the Palestinian question”. The nearly eight decades of conflict, thousands of deaths and the suffering of whole generations attest to that, he said, expressing his country’s commitment to working towards a two-State solution.
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The representative of the United States called for united condemnation of Iran’s “reckless escalatory acts”. For its part, the United States announced sanctions this morning against several actors involved in Iran’s unmanned-aerial-vehicle programme; suppliers and customers of one of Iran’s largest steel producers; and Iranian automobile companies with connections to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The Council, meanwhile, must not let Iran’s actions go unanswered, as that State has armed Hizbullah in violation of resolution 1701 (2006), facilitated Houthi attacks in violation of resolutions 2216 (2015) and 2722 (2024) and transferred attack drones in violation of resolution 2231 (2015). Further, Iran’s long-standing support to Hamas continues to contribute to the crisis in Gaza, and he underscored: “Hamas is the sole obstacle to a ceasefire.” While the world watches to see what Hamas does now, Israel must do more to prevent civilian casualties. He also stressed that “no country has worked harder than the United States to improve prospects for peace in the region”, adding: “Russia, frankly, has done nothing.”
The representative of Mozambique called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, releasing all hostages and ensuring delivery of humanitarian assistance. Further, efforts are needed to stop violence in the occupied West Bank, de-escalate tensions along the Blue Line and re-establish safe navigation in the Red Sea. Despite the adoption of resolution 2728 (2024), the conflict continues unabated in Gaza, he observed, urging Israel to comply with relevant Council resolutions and International Court of Justice decisions on the matter. Recognizing the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, political independence and sovereignty, he advocated for a two-State solution — two separate independent and sovereign States, Israel and Palestine, both members of the United Nations, living side by side in peace and security, as prescribed by the Charter.
The representative of Guyana said the injustice Palestinians face is unaddressed due to lacking accountability for non-compliance with Council and UN bodies’ decisions. The Council needs a new approach, she said. Since 7 October, there has been a “deliberate strategy of collective punishment of the worst kind” inflicted on Palestinians. “It must stop.” She called for the occupying Power to abide by international law and implement the International Court of Justice’s orders on 26 January and 28 March. The latest conflict is a symptom of the failure to address the core issue of a two-State solution. She noted a “perverse paradox” in which the State of Palestine, facing such horrors, believes in and seeks membership to the UN, while Israel, a full member of the UN, is relentless in denigrating and denouncing it. “Guyana will not let such perverse paradox derail our support for Palestine as a UN member.” Palestinian Statehood must be delivered, with admission to the UN a necessary step.
The representative of the Republic of Korea, expressing concern about the absence of any clear signs of an end to the evolving tragedy in Gaza, underscored the need for the “strong will of the international community to end this conflict”. The direct cause of the current situation was the 7 October terrorist attacks by Hamas against Israeli citizens, he said, stressing that terrorist attacks against innocent civilians cannot be justified and must be condemned. “For a permanent peace in the Middle East, the two-State solution is not an option, but a necessity,” he said, urging for an immediate ceasefire to resume dialogue between the two sides. Settlement activities — a major obstacle to achieving a two-State solution — must completely cease “The two-State solution is beneficial not only for Palestinians but also for Israelis, and both peoples rightfully deserve the right live in peace, security, and dignity,” he concluded.
The representative of Switzerland unequivocally endorsed the calls for de-escalation, condemning Iran’s coordinated attacks against Israel as well as the Israeli strike against Tehran’s consulate in Damascus on 1 April. “The spiral of violence has dangerously been triggered,” she warned, underscoring the need to respect international law as “the compass” for resolving any dispute. Since the 7 October Hamas attacks, the Council has adopted three resolutions on Gaza. Implementing them is a first step towards peace. The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, already catastrophic, continues to deteriorate. As the occupying Power, Israel must meet the basic needs of the population under its control. The Palestinian population in the West Bank is prey to violent acts by Israeli settlers. Only a two-State solution, negotiated by both parties under international law and internationally agreed parameters, can lead to lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians.
AYMAN SAFADI, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Jordan, recounted the story of Mohammed who was displaced from the Nuseirat refugee camp to Rafah where he fetches water and bread, if he finds them, to bring to his family. Although deprived of his school, he attends a lesson in a refugee camp with peers who insist on learning. “Mohammed says he doesn’t want war. Instead, he wants a future; he wants life and dignity,” he emphasized, stressing that the Israeli Government must be prevented from escalating further and dragging the West into a regional war, which would distract attention away from Gaza. De-escalation must begin with an end to the aggression in Gaza and an end to the worsening humanitarian crisis, he stressed. His country will not allow anyone, neither Israel nor Iran, to turn it into an arena for conflict, and will protect the security of its citizens. The Council must adopt a binding resolution for a ceasefire in Gaza and it must oblige Israel not to invade Rafah. He called on all to support the efforts of Egypt, Qatar and United States to reach an exchange deal that would lead to the release of hostages and ensure a ceasefire. The international community must launch immediate international actions that put the region on the path to implementing the two-State solution, with a specific timeframe and binding implementation guarantees, he said.
MAURO VIEIRA, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Brazil, said that the Council must prevent the Middle East from plunging into widespread social unrest, political instability and war, stressing: “The key word here is ‘de-escalation’.” This requires an immediate end to hostilities in Gaza, the unconditional release of hostages, sustainable humanitarian aid and actions that promote dialogue over further confrontation. Recent escalation serves as a reminder that “a world without rules — or with rules that we pick and choose — is a much more dangerous world”, he observed. He also urged the Council to assess the State of Palestine’s request for UN membership “for its main merit — to redress, by peaceful means, a historical injustice”. Various UN decisions outlawing occupation and annexation have laid the normative basis for the consolidation of the State of Palestine’s territorial sovereignty, he recalled, urging: “We should now discuss ways to ensure the implementation of such norms.”
CELINDA SOSA LUNDA, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bolivia, said every day, “with pain and indignation”, the world witnesses the bodies of innocent girls, boys, women and men buried under the rubble, “bodies torn apart without a second thought” by Israel’s weapons and bombs. Moreover, it is shamelessly accusing humanitarian organizations and the UN itself of financing terrorism. Israel has decided to ignore the Charter of the United Nations, international law, human rights and international humanitarian law to perpetrate genocide against the Palestinian people, which threatens world peace. Echoing the demand for an immediate ceasefire, she underscored that “the Palestinians in Gaza cannot continue to be imprisoned within their own territory, without food, without water, without medicine and without the most basic services that a human being requires.” Against this backdrop, she reiterated the Palestinian people’s legitimate right to self-determination and sovereignty. Palestine must be established as a free, independent and sovereign State, with pre-1967 borders and East Jerusalem as its capital, she stressed, fully supporting the incorporation of Palestine as a Member State, with full rights, in the United Nations.
HOSSEIN AMIR-ABDOLLAHIAN, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iran, asserted that three Council resolutions and a press statement against Israel’s crimes have yielded “no practical result”. Israel’s attack on Iran’s consulate in Damascus violates the Vienna Conventions, he underlined. He regretted that the Council has taken no action on his country’s repeated requests to prevent further Israeli attacks on Iran’s interests. No Member State would remain silent in the face of such a serious attack on its consulate and the killing of its staff. He pointed out the White House’s green light granted to Israel for that and other attacks on Iranian interests. His country could no longer be patient. Its only option was to attack Israel, on 13 April, under its right to self-defence under international law. It did not target civilians or civilian areas, focusing on military bases used to attack its consulate. “Therefore, it was completely limited and proportionate in terms of scope and military requirements.” He emphasized that his country’s legitimate defence and countermeasures have been concluded and said Israel must be compelled to stop any further “military adventurism” against Iran’s interests. Tehran “will not hesitate one bit” to respond to any illegal use of force to make Israel regret its actions. “This is an unchangeable decision.” The Council must compel Israel to immediately stop the war and genocide in Gaza. Tehran will remain committed to promoting regional peace and stability, as its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps have done previously in Iraq and Syria. Iran’s anti-terrorism military advisers will continue “as mightily as ever” efforts to achieve lasting security in the region. He called for a referendum among the original Palestinian residents to establish a Government in the historical land of Palestine.
JOSÉ MANUEL ALBARES, Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation of Spain, warning of a risk of regional escalation following Iran’s attack on Israel, noted that the political solution to the conflict between Palestine and Israel has no alternative. To ensure irreversible peace in the region, a two-State solution must be irreversible. The way to achieve this is by recognizing Palestine as a full member of the United Nations, he asserted, adding: “The establishment of the Palestinian State alongside the State of Israel is undoubtedly a matter of justice, but it is also the only viable option for peace.” Noting that Spain will join 139 countries that have recognized the State of Palestine, he emphasized that “security in Israel, peace in the region, are intertwined with the hope for the Palestinian people to have a State”. Therefore, Spain has proposed the convening of an international peace conference — supported by the European Union, the League of Arab States (LAS) and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), as well as 80 countries — to advance the achievement of a two-State solution. Recalling that the first UN peacekeeping mission was deployed in Palestine 76 years ago, he asked: “How much longer we need to wait to solve it?” “The spiral of violence must end,” he stressed, noting that the Palestinian people must have a place in the UN and their own State. Likewise, the place and existence of Israel must be recognized by all those who have not yet done so.
LUIS GILBERTO MURILLO URRUTIA, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Colombia, stressing that the lack of solution to the Palestinian question cannot be the exception to international law or to the Security Council’s authority, said the 15-member organ must ensure immediate compliance with resolution 2728 (2024). Pointing to the over six months’ incessant violence in the Middle East, he said the end of violence and the solution to the Palestinian question require the recognition and admission of Palestine as a full-fledged member of the United Nations. Such recognition is essential to guarantee a solid legal and political framework for the Palestinian people and for peace and stability in the region. This conflict can only be resolved once and for all with the two-State solution, he stressed.
AHMET YILDIZ, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Türkiye, underscored that “no country has been given immunity” from international law and asked, in that context, why the Council has not taken action amidst Israel’s “brazen” violations thereof. Reminding the Council — “yet again” — that maintaining international peace and security is its primary task and that it is supposed to be the voice of the international community, he stressed that “where the international community stands on this matter is pretty obvious”. Meeting regularly, making the same points repeatedly and leaving-empty handed will not solve the problem. New, decisive steps are needed, he underscored — “the full recognition of the State of Palestine is one of them”. Israel has been enjoying Statehood for decades while Palestine is denied its inherent rights, and it is time to “fix this unjust, lop-sided approach”, he said.
ANDRZEJ SZEJNA, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Poland, associating himself with the European Union, condemned Iran’s attacks on Israel, which brought the entire Middle East — already in turmoil — to the brink of a full-scale conflict. While supporting Israel’s right to self-defence, he underscored that it must take place in full compliance with international law and “not result in the suffering of innocent civilians or the death of those who come to help them.” Voicing grave concern over Israeli military activities in the vicinity of Rafah, where the civilian population shelters, he supported the UN’s efforts to stabilize the Middle East and deliver humanitarian assistance to the region. Full cooperation between regional and global partners is essential to decrease the risk of escalation. Calling for the investigation and accountability from UN partners after the deadly strike on World Central Kitchen volunteers, he noted that one of the fatal victims of the attack was a Polish citizen, Damian Soból.
The representative of the Maldives expressed his country’s support for the State of Palestine to become a full member of the UN and called on all other UN Member States to do the same. Israel is waging a gruesome and genocidal war against Palestine, he said, noting the Charter requires the Council to take punitive actions against those that violate its resolutions and therefore it should impose sanctions, including an arms embargo on Israel. The starting point for an enduring solution to the situation is granting full UN membership to Palestine. That is the basic ingredient of the “two-State solution”. He underscored that the Council has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to be on the side of justice and say “yes” to the fundamental rights of Palestinian people, and “no” to Israel’s racism, apartheid and occupation.
SVEN KOOPMANS, European Union High Representative for the Middle East Peace Process, in its capacity as observer, called for “an immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of all hostages, and the full and unhindered provision of humanitarian assistance at scale”. Resolution 2728 (2024) and the orders of the International Court of Justice must be implemented immediately. Gaza in its entirety needs to return to rule by the Palestinian Authority and be part of the future State of Palestine. Also, de-escalating and implementing relevant resolutions is key to avoiding a regional war.
He called for the convening of an international peace conference, which will “reverse-engineer the peace by starting at the end, practically elaborating the day of peace”. A ceasefire and a preparatory meeting with those interested in contributing to peace are necessary prerequisites for convening such an event. “Let us start to map out our support if and when there is a two-State solution,” he said, emphasizing the need to reaffirm the framework for Israeli-Palestinian peace and to invite both parties separately to express their needs for international support towards that end. “Not just the Israelis and Palestinians, but all of us have a responsibility to prepare for peace,” he concluded.
HOSSAM ZAKI, Assistant Secretary General and Chef de Cabinet of the Secretary General of the League of Arab States, said the urgent objective is a ceasefire in Gaza, humanitarian aid to its people and the immediate return of the displaced to their homes. Warning against continued violence if the Palestinian question is not resolved, or the two-State solution not implemented, he said the pursuit of the two-State solution over the past three decades has always come up against Israel’s brick wall of persistent occupation of the Palestinian territories. Urging the Council to see things as they are, he said the Israeli occupation will not voluntarily forfeit land or control. The Palestinian people have proven that they are fully qualified to establish their independent State and to be full members of the United Nations. Any talk of postponing this matter undermines the aspirations of Palestinian independence and belittles their legitimate right to independence and freedom, he stressed.
Granting full membership to Palestine would put any negotiations between it and the occupying Power on an equal footing, he continued. The Council must recognize the State of Palestine and grant it full membership in the UN as a path toward peace. Noting excessive efforts to delegitimize UNRWA, he said the Agency must be allowed to continue its work in providing aid to millions of Palestinian refugees. Remaining silent over the continued crime in Gaza will place the Council’s legitimacy at risk, he emphasized, voicing hope that the Council will implement its resolution.
NASSER KAMEL, Secretary General of the Union for the Mediterranean, recalled a meeting between the Foreign Ministers of the Union’s member States in Barcelona on 27 November 2023, following which a joint communiqué was issued identifying points of convergence. These included expressions of concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza, of the need to protect civilians and of the rejection of Palestinian displacement, as well as calls to implement the two-State solution with clear timelines and agreed implementation mechanisms. Noting that Israel and Palestine are among the Union’s founding members, he said that the organization can be “a keystone in shaping a new vision for the future of the region”. War and vengeance can only lead to more brutality, he stressed, stating that the only way to ensure security for both Israelis and Palestinians is to collectively exert the necessary pressure “to stop this conflagration, and to stop it now”.
The representative of Saudi Arabia, also speaking on behalf of the Group of Arab States, expressed full support for the long-awaited draft resolution submitted by Algeria. Voting against this draft will deprive the Palestinian people of their legitimate right to full UN membership and is an appeasement of the Israeli occupation authority that rejects the two-State solution. Noting that over 140 countries have recognized the State of Palestine, he underscored that this will not be the last attempt of the group of Arab States, which “will continue to knock on the Council’s door, demanding the rights of the Palestinian people”. Granting Palestinians full membership in the Organization is “an important step on the path of peace and stability in the region”, he observed, condemning the Israeli war machine targeting civilians in Gaza amid shameful international silence. Further, he expressed concern over the occupation forces’ intention to launch a ground offensive on Rafah — the last resort for the people of Gaza — in violation of resolution 2728 (2024).
The representative of Egypt said there is a legitimate and inherent right of the Palestinian people to a State. There should be equality in rights and legal status among all peoples, and equality among Palestinians and Israelis — this is what is just. Israel believes that it is above the law, he said, by launching attacks on neighbouring States and breaking international law and norms. This has led to a vicious cycle that is difficult to contain. “Everybody will lose.” He rejected Israel’s attempts to “spread the fire” across the Middle East and open new fronts in this war to distract world opinion from its actions in Gaza. Any appeasement of Israeli attacks on neighbouring countries will lead the Middle East in a downward spiral that will be paid for by everyone in the world. There must be an immediate halt of hostilities in Gaza, he said, noting that his country will not allow Israel to take advantage of the current regional atmosphere and use flimsy excuses to attack Rafah or expand the scope of its military operations in Gaza. He called on the Council to issue a resolution under Chapter 7 of the Charter of the United Nations for an immediate and permanent ceasefire to oblige Israel to open all crossings around Gaza and allow aid access. He also asked for a resolution to prevent the export of weapons to Israel, to hold it accountable for its crimes and oblige it to pay reparations. The Council should support Palestine’s request for full membership, he said, adding that Palestine fulfils all the practical requirements for the concept of a State and the requirements stated in Article IV of the Charter.
The representative of Qatar, aligning herself with the Arab Group and OIC and recalling the recent “alarming developments” in the region, emphasized the urgent need to halt the bloodshed in Gaza to prevent further escalation. She reiterated a call for the parties to de-escalate and for the international community to prevent the region from spiraling into violence. Qatar condemns all forms of civilian targeting and collective punishment policies by the Israeli occupying authorities, she said, urging for the implementation of resolution 2728 (2024) and the orders of the International Court of Justice. On the diplomatic level, Qatar will continue its efforts aimed at alleviating the suffering of people in Gaza and securing the release of hostages on both sides. Moreover, her country has increased its funding to UNWRA by $25 million in addition to previous contributions. “The only guarantee to achieve peace is a ceasefire that leads to meaningful political talks and a comprehensive settlement,” she said, voicing support for the draft resolution recommending acceptance of the State of Palestine as a full-fledged UN member.
The representative of Libya, associating himself with Algeria — the Arab representative in the Council — and the Arab Group, said Palestine is a peace-loving State, unlike what the Israeli entity has tried to promote today. The resolution tabled by Algeria comes at a time when 140 countries — 75 per cent of peoples around the world — have recognized the State of Palestine. Despite this, some are still talking about reviving the peace process and a peaceful settlement of the crisis based on the two-State solution. “Why this contradiction?” he asked. His country will remain steadfast to the just cause of the Palestinian people. Addressing those who are still trying to distort the truth, he said: “You cannot limit the current crisis to 7 October; you cannot forget the violence and massacres committed for over seven decades in all the occupied territories.”
The representative of Liechtenstein expressed concern over “a counter-productive and unfounded suggestion that resolution 2728 (2024) might not be legally binding”. Quoting Article 25 of the Charter of the United Nations — that Member States agree to accept and carry out Council decisions — she stressed: “If there is any doubt, especially in the minds of Council members, that this is an unequivocal statement on the legally binding nature of Council decisions, there is little reason left to aim for Council action.” And yet, further Council action is needed to protect civilians and effect an immediate, durable and sustained humanitarian ceasefire. She added that Palestine “fulfils the basic criteria for Statehood under international law”.
The representative of the Philippines voiced concern over the increasing tensions between Israel and Iran, urging all parties to refrain from escalating the situation and to work towards a peaceful resolution of their conflict. Expressing support for a two-State solution, he underscored that Israelis and Palestinians deserve a shared future where their rights, aspirations, and security are upheld. Noting that over 90 per cent of the population is facing food insecurity and critical shortages of electricity and water, he said the scale of displacement and destruction of homes and schools is also alarming, threatening the future of an entire generation. In this regard, he recognized the paramount significance of resolution 2728 (2024), which addresses the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Ending the enduring Israeli-Palestinian conflict is “a pivotal determinant” for regional peace and stability, he said.
The representative of South Africa, associating himself with the Non-Aligned Movement, called for all parties in the region to exercise utmost restraint. Noting past Council commitments, he said it must also act for sustainable and just peace. “Otherwise, why bother adopting statements and resolutions that would become meaningless should they be ignored.” Unless the international community commits itself to ending war and to establishing conditions under which justice and respect for international law are maintained the proliferation of global conflicts will continue. He added that the international community must avoid “any retributive actions” as Palestine pursues its right to seek UN membership. He said his country believes the Palestinian people’s right to their own fully independent State must be recognized by all, and their aspiration for UN membership should be supported.
The representative of Bangladesh expressed concern that despite the adoption of resolution 2728 (2024), which called for an immediate ceasefire for the month of Ramadan, the situation remains “absolutely frustrating and unacceptable”, with an increasing death toll in Gaza. He noted the “elusive prospect” of a negotiated ceasefire, with Israel blatantly disregarding decisions by the Council, General Assembly, Human Rights Council and International Court of Justice. Against this backdrop, he urged all Member States to comply with the recent Human Rights Council resolution on halting arms transfers to the occupying Power. Highlighting the General Assembly’s strong vote in favour of accepting Palestine as a UN member, he called on the Council to do the same. “The root cause of all past and present instability in the Middle East is the prolonged Israeli occupation of the Palestinian and Arab territories,” he said, adding that peace in the region hinges on resolving this core issue.
The representative of the United Arab Emirates, aligning with the Arab Group, urged Council members to vote in favour of the draft resolution recommending that Palestine be granted full UN membership. It has been an active member of the international community, its Statehood is already recognized by 140 countries, it has joined many international instruments and it plays an active role in regional and international organizations. He also recalled that, through General Assembly resolution 181, the Organization committed to establishing two States in Palestine — “one Arab, one Jewish”. However, while Israel was subsequently established, the Palestinian people are still waiting for their State. Stressing that granting the State of Palestine full UN membership would consolidate peace efforts, he stressed that recent events have proven that the international community’s approach of managing the conflict — instead of taking concrete steps towards a resolution — “remains a futile course of action”.
CHEIKH NIANG, Chair of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People, rejected linking the origin of the current crisis solely to the 7 October attack on Israel. The historical context, spanning over 76 years, helps to understand the illegal Israeli occupation of the Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, decades of documented human rights violations, grave breaches of international humanitarian law and seventeen years of blockade of the Gaza Strip. “Addressing such issues is essential for a just and lasting resolution to the question of Palestine, including the current catastrophic crisis in Gaza,” he stressed. While welcoming the adoption of resolution 2728 (2024), he expressed deep regret that it was not implemented. “Ramadan is over, and thousands of Palestinian civilians continue to be killed and maimed,” he said, stating: “This must stop.”
“Gaza today is the victim of an openly admitted human-made famine,” he said, noting that, concurrently, Israel’s occupying forces and armed settlers continue to inflict violence and dispossession on the Palestinian population in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. He also condemned Israel’s deliberate attacks on humanitarian workers and infrastructure, noting “the disparity in attention devoted to these incidents, including the killing of 178 UNRWA and other staff, and the equally horrendous World Central Kitchen staff tragedy”. Further, he emphasized that Israel must stop targeting journalists, and the international press must be allowed access to Gaza. The ramifications of UNRWA’s collapse “go beyond mere humanitarian concerns”, he warned, stressing that it would “threaten to ignite new flames of tension and conflict in an already volatile region”. Calling on Member States to support the State of Palestine’s application for UN membership, he said this crucial step will support the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and the realization of the two-State solution.
The representative of Indonesia said that Palestine becoming a full member of the UN is a long overdue course of action to uphold justice, restart negotiations on the two-State solution on an equal footing and give hope to the Palestinian people. “How can we achieve lasting peace if Palestine is continuously denied its right to equal standing in peace negotiations,” he said. He called on all Council members to use their moral compass and support the resolution. Otherwise, the credibility of the multilateral system will be undermined, and peace will become more elusive. The Council must stop the catastrophe in Gaza, he said, adding that it must call for an immediate ceasefire and implement all resolutions on the political settlement of the conflict.